20 / 46 Peaks ADK
Last year I completed 11 of the 46 peaks from April to July. This WEEKEND I completed 9 more! Here’s how I did it!
Thursday night after work I drove up to the ADK (I live in Syracuse so this particular trail head was 4 hours away). I arrived around 10pm, I hiked a few miles in and set up camp at the designated camping area going towards Big Slide, Upper, and Lower Wolfjaw mountains. It was around 12:30 when I got camp set up, ate, and settled in for the night.
Friday morning I woke up, had breakfast, packed up camp, and started my journey. I hiked to the junction of Upper and Lower Wolfjaw mountain, left my pack there, hiked up Lower Wolfjaw, had a snack, hiked back down, grabbed my pack, and headed to Upper Wolfjaw mountain. I hiked over Upper Wolfjaw and then made my way towards Armstrong, where I had lunch and enjoyed the view! Then I headed on over to Gothic Peak and then to Pyramid, where I once again left my pack and headed over to Sawtheeth and rushed back, getting back to the top of Pyramid just in time for this beautiful sunset! After this it was SLOW going. My headlamp only lit the way so much and it is pitch black in these mountains at night! After leaving Pyramid I stumbled on down the mountain towards Saddleback. This was the HARDEST part of the hike, primarily due to the dark but also because this was an extremely steep cable/rope descent. I was tired, it was dark, and it was STEEP! Here’s where my plans had to change. Originally I was supposed to make it over saddleback and basin to get to the designated campsite for the night but I knew that wasn’t happening. The junction to those mountains was the start of the Alpine Arctic Zone so I couldn’t stay there, I had to hike a little below that line away from my intended destination to set up camp for the night.
Saturday morning I got up, had breakfast, packed up, and set off towards Saddleback, getting there was pretty quick and smooth, I then pushed to Basin where I stopped and had some snacks and talked about the trails with a large travel group from Montreal. They were going towards where I had come from and came from where I was going so we swapped stories, ate snacks, and then went our separate ways! From here I ascended Little Haystack where I left my pack, went down and back up to Haystack Peak, and then went back to Little Haystack to have some lunch. After this I took Phelps trail ALLLLL the way back to the car. This took FOREVER!! I had originally left Big Slide Peak as a last option, telling myself I would decide whether or not to summit when I got back to the beginning of the trail. Considering my body was screaming at me to stop I can say I did NOT peak Big Slide. I got back to the car around 10pm, I was exhausted, my shoulder was sore from slipping off a rock face earlier that day and catching myself on a tree, my knees felt like they would crack with another step, my feet blistered, and my asthma was not happy with my decisions. BUT IT WAS SO WORTH IT! Stopped and treated myself to a shake and 20 piece nugget and large fries from McDonald’s and got home around 3am.
I am SO proud of myself for what I accomplished this weekend. Last year the most I did in a weekend was 5 and this year I almost did what I did in months in 2 days! I have now completed 20 of the 46 peaks ♥️
#hikerlife #hiking #adirondackmountains #aspiring46er #upstateny #backpacking #goals
The Adirondack Mountains, known for their stunning vistas and challenging climbs, are a premier destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning over six million acres, the region boasts 46 high peaks, each offering unique experiences and unmatched natural beauty. Whether you're an aspiring 46er or an experienced hiker, proper preparation is key to navigating these rugged terrains successfully. Planning your hike is essential, starting with choosing the right trails based on your skill level and stamina. For Beginners, trails like Cascade Mountain provide substantial rewards for lower-effort hikes, while seasoned climbers might seek the challenge of the more rigorous routes, such as the ascent of Mount Marcy—the highest peak in New York State. During your hike, packing adequate supplies such as food, water, maps, and safety gear is vital. Accessibility to local resources can be a game-changer, so familiarizing yourself with nearby campsites, rest areas, and popular hiking routes can enhance your overall experience. Additionally, learning to navigate potential weather changes and understanding the proper protocols for navigating in darkness are crucial for safety. Unique flora and fauna abound in the Adirondacks, so be prepared to encounter wildlife like deer, black bears, and various bird species along your journey. Observing the intricacies of the ecosystem can significantly enrich your hiking experience. Lastly, respect and preservation of the wilderness are paramount. Stick to marked trails, carry out what you carry in, and stay updated on local regulations. Engaging with fellow hikers and sharing experiences can also foster a strong sense of community among outdoor lovers. Whether you're seeking thrills or tranquility, the Adirondack Mountains offer something for everyone. With careful planning and a spirit of adventure, you too can tackle these magnificent peaks and create unforgettable memories.